Treating A Drug Overdose

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Overview

Drug overdoses can be unintentional or on purpose. The quantity of a particular drug required to cause an overdose differs according to the type of drug and the individual taking it. Overdoses from over-the-counter medicines, “street” drugs, and alcohol can be severe. Remember, combining certain pills or “street” drugs with alcohol can result in death.

Bodily Symptoms Of A Drug Overdose. They Consist Of:

  • Irregular breathing
    Drug overdoses can be unintentional or on purpose. The quantity of a particular drug required to cause an overdose differs according to the type of drug and the individual taking it.
    Drug overdoses can be unintentional or on purpose. The quantity of a particular drug required to cause an overdose differs according to the type of drug and the individual taking it.
  • Inaudible speech
  • Lack of coordination
  • Sluggish or fast pulse
  • Low or high body temperature
  • Bloated or small pupils (eyes)
  • Reddish face
  • Severe sweating
  • Lethargy
  • Delirium
  • Unconsciousness which can lead to a coma

Signs To Look For If Someone Is Abusing Drugs Or Alcohol:

  • Loss of hunger
  • Restlessness
  • Aggression
  • Mental bewilderment
  • Despair
  • Mood swings
  • Mysterious behavior
  • Social segregation
  • Deep sleep
  • Delirium

Prevention

Unintentional prescription and OTC medication overdoses can be prohibited by asking your practitioner or pharmacist:

  • What is the prescription and why is it being given?
  • How and when should the prescription be taken and for what time frame? (Follow the directions exactly as given.)
  • Can the medication be consumed with other medicines?
  • Are there are any foods to keep away from while consuming this medication?
  • Does this medication have any side effects?
  • What are the signs of an overdose and what should be done if it happens?

Medication overdoses can be avoided:

  • Never consume medication prescribed for somebody else.
  • Never offer or take medication in the dark. Prior to each dose, always examine the sticker on the bottle to be sure it is the right medication.
  • Always inform the doctor of any earlier side effects or unpleasant reactions to medication as well as new and odd symptoms that transpire after taking the medicine.
  • Always keep pills in bottles with child-protected lids and put those bottles on high shelves.
  • Don’t take more than the prescribed dosage.
  • Store medications in their original boxes or containers.

Unlawful drug use among kids should be discouraged:

  • Set a good example for your kids by not taking drugs yourself.
  • Educate your child to say “NO”. Discuss the hazards of drug use.
  • Get to know your kids’ friends and their parents.
  • Know where your kids are and who they are spending their time with.
  • Pay attention to your kids and assist them to express their feelings and worries.
  • Learn to identify the symptoms and signs of drug and alcohol abuse.

 Related Video On Drug Overdoses

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